ONE in 10 adults in Merseyside and the wider region now help frail, sick or disabled relatives and friends, according to asurvey by charities.

The figure is slowly rising due to an ageing population and continuing health problems associated with poor diet and un-healthy lifestyles in the north west.

The survey also found that 79% of un-paid carers say their own health has suffered, with depression among the most common complaints.

Most report that their health problems affect their ability to care, but only one in four have been offered a health check by their own GP.

The survey, by the eight leading charities involved in Carers Week which began on Monday, boosted efforts by regional MPs to force the NHS to offer annual health checks within 12 months of someone becoming a carer.

Riverside's Louise Ellman said: "These people need and deserve help. Carers should be viewed as key partners in community care."